Flying boat visit

Regarding Tuesday’s news item on the landing of a small seaplane in Lerwick Harbour on Monday, it was stated that this may be a first since the end of the second war (Seaplane touches down in harbour; SN, 27/05/14)

Well, I am not sure of the exact date but, when a pupil at the Anderson Institute about 1956/57, I recall a Sunderland flying boat landing in the harbour.

It took off about 11 o’clock (playtime) in the morning and when we heard the roar of her engines preparing to take off a friend and I ran down to the shore below the Anderson Homes and I will never forget the sight and sound as she picked up speed coming south the harbour and lumbered into the air in the south mouth off the Knab.

I think it may have been when an exercise, possibly “Mainbrace”, was taking place at Sullom Voe. Perhaps some one has more details. (if so, please contact us on views@shetnews.co.uk) 

Joe Gray
Lerwick